Adventures in Machine Learning

Today, join Michael and Ben as they delve into crucial topics surrounding code security and the safe execution of machine learning models. This episode focuses on preventing accidental key leaks in notebooks, creating secure environments for code execution, and the pros and cons of various isolation methods like VMs, containers, and micro VMs.They explore the challenges of evaluating and executing generated code, highlighting the risks of running arbitrary Python code and the importance of secure evaluation processes. Ben shares his experiences and best practices, emphasizing human evaluation and secure virtual environments to mitigate risks.The episode also includes an in-depth discussion on developing new projects with a focus on proper engineering procedures, and the sophisticated efforts behind Databricks' Genie service and MLflow's RunLLM. Finally, Ben and Michael explore the potential of fine-tuning machine learning models, creating high-quality datasets, and the complexities of managing code execution with AI.Tune in for all this and more as we navigate the secure pathways to responsible and effective machine learning development.SocialsLinkedIn: Michael BerkLinkedIn: Ben WilsonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

They delve into the journeys and insights of distinguished leaders in the development world. In today's episode, Michael engages with  Brian Vallelunga, the visionary CEO of Doppler. Brian shares his compelling journey from early tech innovations to leading multiple startups and eventually founding Doppler, a centralized cloud secret management tool.Brian emphasizes the importance of making security tools enticing for developers, comparing it to making vegetables taste like candy, to boost productivity. His team’s strategy revolves around seamless integration into developers’ workflows, featuring a VS Code extension and automatic syncing akin to Dropbox, enhancing efficiency and ease of use.They explore Doppler's competitive edge and how it partners with major cloud resource managers, making two-click integrations effortless. Brian also discusses their customer-centric development approach and the release of enterprise features like two-person approval and config inheritance, designed for complex organizational needs.Brian's entrepreneurial journey is marked by significant pivots driven by frustration and market demand, rather than strategic planning alone. He shares candid thoughts on the impact of founders and success, cautioning against the allure of celebrity status and emphasizing team contributions.Join them as they dive into insightful discussions on building developer-friendly security tools, the nuances of secret management, and Brian's perspectives on startup growth and innovation. Discover how Doppler is revolutionizing secret management, one integration at a time.SocialsLinkedIn: Brian VallelungaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, Michael and Ben discuss peer review, specifically Michael's experiences. Michael explains his unconventional path, starting with advanced math as a child, then struggling with a math-heavy computer science program in college. He pivoted to environmental studies, focusing on side projects and extracurriculars. These projects led to his first job, and later to a role at a boxing streaming service (2B) with a rigorous peer review process. Ben asks about the importance of the peer review process, and Michael highlights its value in catching errors and ensuring code quality, especially when working under pressure. Moreover, Ben discusses the learning experience at different career stages, noting that junior developers learn from senior developers' code and feedback. Ben discusses the differences in peer review for different types of code changes. They discuss the importance of thorough review for critical code changes and many more!SocialsLinkedIn: Ben WilsonLinkedIn: Michael Berk Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, Ben and Michael discuss how to handle situations involving individuals lacking expertise in machine learning projects. They explore scenarios where a team lacks expertise, considering approaches for consultants or team members. They discuss various personality types encountered in such situations, including those overly suspicious or resistant to change. Moreover, they discuss how to convince a boss that a proposed project is a bad idea, suggesting a structured approach with clear estimates, risk assessment, and alternative solutions. They emphasize the importance of honesty, transparency, and presenting options with clear pros and cons. The discussion then returns to the Gen AI time-series case study, suggesting a presentation of multiple options, including established algorithms and the Gen AI approach, to facilitate a data-driven decision.Finally, the episode addresses the scenario of a teammate being untrained about a system they built, suggesting a combination of direct but constructive feedback and a collaborative approach to identify the root cause of the issue.SocialsLinkedIn Ben WilsonLinkedIn Michael BerkBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In this episode, Michael and Ben dive deep into the intersection of education and technology with their insightful guest, Daniel Hiterer.Michael, a data engineering and machine learning expert, and Ben, an integrator of Gen AI tools, navigate through Danny's unique perspective on the impact of nurturing educational environments. Currently working at Cornell’s Studio entrepreneurship program, Danny brings a multidisciplinary background, combining history and instructional technology, and shares his vision for the future of learning.This episode explores the transformative power of nurture in education, the evolving role of Gen AI in fostering curiosity, and the challenges and opportunities in integrating AI into the learning process. Danny provides thought-provoking insights on emotional access points, curiosity-driven learning, and the delicate balance between educational goals and productivity tools.Listen in as they discuss personalized education, the promise of AI-assisted learning, and the future trajectory of superintelligence in education. Plus, hear personal anecdotes from Ben and Michael about their own learning journeys and the evolving landscape of curiosity and knowledge.SocialsLinkedIn: Daniel HitererBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

Today, they dive deep into the fascinating intersection of open-source development and machine learning.  Michael and Ben are joined by distinguished guest, Görkem Erkan, CTO and seasoned engineer at Jozu.Görkem shares his illustrious career journey from Nokia to Red Hat, his contributions to the Eclipse Foundation, and his current focus on MLOps. They explore his passion for open-source projects, the cultural and communication impacts on software design, and the unique challenges posed by integrating open-source frameworks with proprietary systems. Ben provides critical insights on the complexities of managing scalable backend services and the hurdles in translating SaaS offerings to open-source platforms.Tune in to learn about the innovative practices at Jozu, the role of open communication in team success, and the nuanced debate on maintaining separate proprietary and open-source codebases. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for developers, tech leaders, and anyone interested in the future of machine learning and open-source development. SocialsLinkedIn: Görkem Ercan Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In this week's episode, Michael and Ben sit down with Artem Koren, Chief Product Officer at Sembly AI, to explore the future of AI integration in the workplace. We'll delve into Sembly AI's mission to accelerate team efficiency through powerful AI tools—imagine an Iron Man suit for your daily tasks. From proactive AI assisting with time-consuming tasks to ethical considerations in data privacy, this episode covers the cutting-edge developments and challenges in AI implementation.They also discuss the evolving landscape of workplace automation, the intricacies of data collection, and the balance between privacy and productivity. They also highlight Sembly's latest advancements like Semblian 2.0, a breakthrough in digital twin technology that promises to redefine meeting productivity. Join them for an in-depth conversation on AI's transformative potential, the ethical responsibilities it entails, and the practical impacts on the project. LinksSemblian 2.0SocialsLinkedIn: Artem KorenBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, Michael is joined by Hikari Senju the Founder and CEO at Omneky. He starts by discussing how he built Omneky, an AI-Driven Marketing Platform. They dive into Hikari's approach to working with customers on brand strategy and content. They also talk about the increasing importance of brands in a digital, AI-driven world. Additionally, they tackle Hikari's perspective on how generative AI will impact the advertising industry. Tune in on how ML is Reshaping The Advertising Industry.SocialsLinkedIn: Hikari SenjuBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

Today, Ben and Michael dive into a compelling discussion on the intricate dance between challenges, feedback, mentorship, and growth in the field of software development. In this episode, Michael shares their journey of overcoming the pains of independent problem-solving before receiving effective guidance. As we explore their experiences with Ben, they uncover the vital importance of openness to feedback and the profound value of peer review in refining solutions.They delve into technical aspects, including Python's Pytest framework for unit tests and the delicate balance between complexity and simplicity in testing for maintainability and readability. Additionally, they touch on Michael's hands-on learning curve, tackling unfamiliar concepts such as RAG, embeddings, LLMs, and Git development, all while managing significant time constraints and social commitments.Moreover, Ben shares his mentorship philosophy, likening it to military training—pushing mentees to their limits without prior warning to foster resilience and self-improvement. They also discuss the importance of documentation, bug bashes, and the fine art of balancing integration and unit tests to ensure robust and thorough software.Join them as they explore the journey from initial struggle to increased autonomy and confidence, using real-world examples of testing gaps, code complexities, and the powerful impact of daily feedback. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting your tech career, this episode is packed with valuable insights to enhance your learning and development process. So, stay tuned and dive right in!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

Michael Berk dives deep into the adventures of AI and machine learning with our special guest, Richmond Alake, a staff developer advocate at MongoDB. Richmond's journey from web development to AI was driven by a quest for excitement and new challenges. In this episode, he shares how he transitioned into the AI field, his passion for using writing as a learning tool, and the importance of continuous learning in evolving tech landscapes.They explore the intricacies of building and evaluating Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) systems, the benefits of MongoDB's versatile database functionalities, and the pressing challenges in machine learning data collection and evaluation. Richmond also gives us a peek into MongoDB's advanced solutions for AI application development and how strategic data chunking can impact efficiency.Whether you're a budding AI enthusiast or an experienced developer looking to expand your horizons, this episode is packed with practical advice, career insights, and the latest trends in AI and machine learning. Stay tuned as we uncover how to navigate the complexity of RAG pipelines and the evolving landscape of generative AI. Let's get started!SocialsLinkedIn: Richmond AlakeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

Today, we have a special guest Abi Aryan, an accomplished founder of Abide AI and a seasoned expert in machine learning. Joining us are your hosts, Michael Berk and Ben Wilson, who bring a wealth of experience from Databricks.In this episode, Ben shares his journey navigating the intricacies of deep learning and the surprising effectiveness of simpler solutions over complex algorithms. Abi lends her insights to the balancing act between innovation and practicality in tech adoption, influenced by career stability and venture capital demands. They also explore Abi's passion for recommender systems and audio speech synthesis, and the potential these fields hold for e-commerce and inclusivity.Abi also gives us a glimpse into her research methodology, her approach to autonomous agents, and the challenges she faced with bias and imposter syndrome. As they dissect consulting strategies, experiment design, and the art of fostering a collaborative environment, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for any tech enthusiast.So, get ready to tune in, take notes, and be inspired by the fascinating stories and insights from our expert guest and hosts.SocialsAbi AryanLinkedIn: Abi AryanBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

Today, host Michael Berk and Ben Wilson dive deep into the multifaceted world of software engineering and data science with their insightful guest, Sandy Ryza a lead engineer from Dagster Labs. In this episode, they explore a range of intriguing topics, from the impact of the broken windows theory on code quality to the delicate balance of maintaining backward compatibility in evolving software projects. Sandy talks about the challenges and learnings in transitioning from data science back to software engineering, including dependency management and designing for diverse use cases. They touch on the importance of clear naming conventions, tooling, and infrastructure enforcement to maintain high code quality. Plus, they discuss the intricate process of selecting and managing Python libraries, the satisfaction of refactoring old code, and the necessity of balancing new feature development with stability.Michael and Ben will guide us through these essential discussions, emphasizing the significance of user-centric API design and the benefits of open source software. They also get practical advice on navigating API changes and managing dependencies effectively, with real-world examples from Dagster, Spark Time Series, and the libraries Numba and Pydantic.Join them for an episode packed with valuable insights and strategies for becoming a top-end developer! Don’t forget to follow Sandy on Twitter and check out Dagster.io for more information on his work.SocialsLinkedIn: Sandy RyzaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, Ben and Michael dive deep into the intricacies of software development, innovation, and team dynamics. This episode explores the critical balance between building in-house tools versus leveraging open-source solutions, with real-world examples from Databricks.They discuss the creation and eventual abandonment of a benchmarking tool for warehouses and discuss the importance of evaluating user demand, effort, and impact before committing to development. They emphasize the role of empathy, constructive feedback, and team collaboration in driving successful projects. They share strategies to influence behavior within organizations, the significance of a blame-free culture, and the art of leading difficult conversations with stakeholders.From detailed discussions on customer feedback loops to practical advice on automating mundane tasks, this episode is packed with insights that will help you navigate the complex landscape of software development. So sit back, relax, and join us for a thoughtful and engaging conversation on how to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.SocialsLinkedIn: Michael berkLinkedIn: Benjamin WilsonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, Ben and Michael dive deep into the intersection of education, AI, and innovative instructional design. Luis Garcia who is the President of PETE, delves into automating instructional design, content development, and assessments, shedding light on the evolving educational landscape and the pivotal role of evaluation and learning. Ben shares invaluable insights on leveraging chat GPT and generative AI to streamline documentation creation and evaluate knowledge, drastically cutting down processing times.Together, Luis and Ben discuss the positive reception and transformative potential of AI-driven micro-courses, text-to-speech features, and customized training tools in education. They also touch on the intense training involved in fields like nuclear reactor operation and the need for effective onboarding processes. Michael contributes by emphasizing empathy and strategic pacing in international business projects, while also summarizing instructional strategies and organizational tips for rapid learning and growth.Join them as they explore the crucial role of innovative AI technologies and personalized learning tools in reshaping education and business training, featuring insights from top industry professionals and thought leaders. And don't miss the chance to learn more about Pete and Collectiva. Get ready for a compelling discussion about enhancing learning outcomes and the future of education with AI!SocialsLinkedIn: Luis E. GarciaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, our hosts Michael, Ben, and special guest Keith Goode delve deep into the transformative role of AI and machine learning in modern HR practices. They tackle a range of topics, starting with the innovative use of AI to streamline surveying and sentiment analysis in employee evaluations. They explore the exciting potential of AI models in technical data collection, particularly for interviews, and discuss how these models can assess candidates' sentiment and confidence levels, providing valuable insights into their fit for specific roles.They also hear about the emerging trends discussed at the recent Databricks Data and AI Summit, where generative AI for resume screening took center stage. They debate the challenges and opportunities of leveraging AI to reduce information overload in analytics, particularly within the complex hiring process. They emphasize the importance of explainable AI models, consulting scalability, and the perennial issue of data cleansing in HR.Additionally, the episode touches on the critical aspects of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, the influence of new legislation on workforce diversity modeling, and how companies can configure HR systems to suit their unique needs. They share insights into using advanced tools like XGBoost for predictive modeling, highlight the significance of face-to-face interactions in interview processes, and caution against over-reliance on automated resume screening.Join them as they navigate these thought-provoking discussions and more, shedding light on the intersection of AI, machine learning, and human resources. SocialsLinkedIn: Keith GoodeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, they delve deep into the intertwining worlds of technology, security, and innovation with Aaron Painter, CEO at Nametag.Aaron kicks things off by underlining the cultural facets in hiring, emphasizing the virtues of being good listeners, intellectually curious, kind, and respectful while achieving tangible results. We also explore the collaborative spirit in group product planning and the pivotal role of diverse perspectives.From there, Ben takes us into the fascinating—and somewhat unnerving—advancements in deep fakes, particularly in image generation, and their implications for security and entertainment. This discussion also touches on the complexities of preventing deep fake attacks and the critical role of technology in mitigating these threats.Michael weighs in on how physical devices and user verification limit fraudulent deep fake activities, while Aaron offers invaluable advice on latching onto growing fields like AI for future-proofing your career. We also delve into a riveting recount of Ben’s early data science days, offering a glimpse into the tech evolution from Hadoop to cloud computing.Our conversation spans intriguing analogies, from the oil industry to AI, and examines the crucial shift toward cloud technologies, underpinned by end-use cases and consumer demands. We discuss the pressing need for secure identity verification in the digital age, exploring multifactor authentication and the delicate balance between security and user experience. Additionally, the episode covers Microsoft’s impact on global economies, with Aaron sharing heartfelt insights from his illustrious career.Join them as they navigate these compelling topics and more, offering a wealth of knowledge for developers, tech enthusiasts, and anyone keen on the future of technology. Tune in and prepare to elevate your understanding as we unfold the latest in machine learning, AI, and technological innovation.SocialsLinkedIn: Aaron PainterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today’s episode, they dive into the intricate world of MLOps with Brad Micklea, a seasoned expert with extensive experience in software infrastructure and leadership roles at Eclipse Shay, Red Hat, AWS, and Jozu. Brad shares his journey of founding Jozu, an MLOps company that stands out with its commitment to open standards such as the OCI standard for packaging AI projects. Alongside Jozu, they explore KitOps, an innovative open-source project that simplifies version control and collaboration for AI teams.Join them as they discuss the challenges in integrating AI models into production, the importance of monitoring API usage, and the critical role of automated rollback systems in maintaining operational excellence. They also touch on the cultural differences in operational approaches between giants like AWS and Red Hat and hear first-hand experiences on the significance of transparency, trust, and efficient risk management in both startups and established companies.Whether you're a DevOps professional, MLOps practitioner, or data scientist transitioning to production, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of AI project management. Tune in to discover how Brad and his team are tackling these challenges head-on and learn how to set up your projects for success from the ground up!SocialsLinkedIn: Brad Micklea Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, they dive deep into the evolving landscape of software development. Join us as Kirk, the CTO and founder at Graphlit, shares his journey from traditional software at Microsoft to pioneering perception ML for drone-based aerial intelligence.  They explore the paradigm shift from object-oriented to functional programming, the crucial role of software architecture, and the challenges of maintaining consistent design and documentation in growing teams.They also get insights into Databricks' approach to user-friendly API design and the importance of learning management systems in knowledge distillation. Listen in as our speakers discuss the strategic decisions in scaling products, the nuances of open-source contributions, and the value of automation in modern development. Whether you're navigating a startup or a large enterprise, this episode is packed with expert advice on building robust, scalable systems and the dynamic decision-making needed to thrive in today's tech environment. Tune in and elevate your development game!SocialsLinkedIn: Kirk MarpleBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, Michael and Ben alongside our guest Alex Levin dive deep into the evolving landscape of AI development and its broader implications on business and society. You'll hear Ben emphasize reducing the cost and time of AI development by leveraging open-source models, while Alex draws parallels between the AI industry and flat-screen TVs, advocating for AI as a public good.The conversation traverses through the importance of compelling AI services, revenue-generating strategies, and the disruption AI brings—both in job creation and efficiency improvement. From personal anecdotes in semiconductor fabs to the pitfalls of the YC funding model, we explore various facets of success in the tech world. Alex brings a unique perspective from his background in psychology and entrepreneurship, touching on the importance of market timing, embracing uncertainty, and the significant role of mentorship.Whether you're a startup enthusiast or a seasoned tech veteran, this episode will provide invaluable insights on navigating the complexities of AI development, operational challenges for founders, and the essential balance between innovation and business strategy. So tune in, and let's get started on this journey through the cutting edge of technology with our insightful guests on Top End Devs!SocialsLinkedIn: Alex Levinalexrlevin.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.

In today's episode, Michael and Ben dissect the process of building maintainable and impactful products, emphasizing the crucial balance between innovation and simplicity. They explore personal and group learning curves, the value of collaboration, and the indispensable role of peer review in creating robust solutions.They'll also touch upon the nuanced perspectives of working at top tech companies like Google and Databricks, examining how timing and project involvement can shape a developer's skillset and career trajectory. From the importance of understanding one's career goals to the powerful impact of a company's culture on code quality, they aim to uncover the multifaceted aspects of professional growth in tech.Join they as they delve into stories of overengineered solutions, the necessity of constructive feedback, and the collaborative efforts that define truly great products. Whether you're aspiring to join the elite 1% of developers, or simply looking to understand the dynamics of a high-functioning team, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. So, tune in and let's explore the path to greatness together!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/adventures-in-machine-learning--6102041/support.